There are two ways to watch the Burj Khalifa fireworks. You can stand in the street, crushed by thousands of people, unable to find a taxi for hours. Or, you can sit on a private terrace, sipping a cocktail, eating world-class food, and watching the show comfortably from the front row.
If you value your comfort (and your sanity), you choose the restaurant.
But securing a table with a direct view of the Burj Khalifa on New Year’s Eve is like winning the lottery. Prices are high, and the competition is fierce. As a Dubai local, I have dined at most of these spots, and I am here to tell you which ones are worth the splurge for NYE 2026.
The Prime Location: Souk Al Bahar
If you want to be close enough to feel the heat of the fire, Souk Al Bahar is the place. It is connected to the Dubai Mall by a bridge and sits right on the water.
- Thiptara (The Best for Water Views) This Thai restaurant at the Palace Downtown is my personal favorite. It sits literally on the Dubai Fountain lake.
- The View: Unobstructed, low-angle view of the Burj and Fountains.
- Estimated NYE Price: AED 3,500 – AED 5,000 ($950 – $1,360) per person.
- Verdict: Magical. It feels intimate and romantic.
- BiCE Mare (The Best High Angle) Located on the upper levels, this Italian restaurant offers a sweeping view of the whole Downtown area.
- The View: You can see the crowds below you, which makes you feel very VIP.
- Estimated NYE Price: AED 3,000 – AED 4,500 ($815 – $1,225) per person.
- Verdict: Great for groups who love Italian seafood.
The Stylish Option: Dubai Opera District
If Souk Al Bahar is sold out, look at the restaurants around the Dubai Opera.
- Belcanto (The Opera Garden) Located at the top of Dubai Opera, this spot is sophisticated and incredibly high-end.
- The View: A direct line of sight to the tower.
- Estimated NYE Price: AED 5,000+ ($1,360+) per person.
- Verdict: Perfect for those who want a “Black Tie” experience similar to the Atlantis The Royal Gala
Is It Worth the Money?
Let’s be honest. You are paying for the “Real Estate,” not just the food. A steak here might cost $100 on a normal night, but on NYE, you are paying for the privilege of sitting there for 5 hours.
If spending $1,000 on dinner feels too much, remember that you are also paying for:
- Safety & Comfort: No fighting crowds.
- Access: Passes to enter the Downtown area (which is closed to the public).
- The Memory: Photos that will last a lifetime.
However, if you want to save money and still have luxury, you might consider booking a Desert Safari package instead, where you can see distant fireworks in peace.
Booking Tips for 2026
- Pay Upfront: These venues require 100% payment at the time of booking. No holding tables.
- Get the Pass: Once you book, the restaurant will give you a digital or physical “Road Access Pass.” You need this to get through police checkpoints on NYE.
- Arrive Early: Even with a booking, arrive by 4:00 PM. Traffic stops moving after that.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I see the fireworks from inside the Dubai Mall?
Generally, no. The promenade is packed with people. Booking a restaurant with a terrace is the only way to guarantee a view. - Are kids allowed at these restaurants on NYE?
Most fine-dining venues in Souk Al Bahar allow children, but they usually charge full price or a slightly discounted rate (e.g., 50% off). - Do these prices include alcohol?
Usually, yes. The high-ticket packages (AED 3,000+) almost always include unlimited house beverages and sparkling wine. - When do bookings open?
Restaurants start taking bookings in October. The best terrace tables are gone by mid-November.
